New South Wales’ Minns Government has signed a lease agreement with wind farm developer WestWind Energy, paving the way for the proposed Lake Victoria Wind Farm in south-west New South Wales.
The project, set to feature up to 201 turbines, represents a significant step in expanding the state’s renewable energy capacity.
With an estimated capital expenditure of $3.8 billion, the wind farm will have an installed capacity of approximately 1000 megawatts and is expected to generate around 3400 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually — enough to power up to 700,000 homes.
NSW’s Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper emphasised the economic and environmental benefits of the project.
“The Lake Victoria Wind Farm proposal has the potential to deliver major economic investment, well-paid regional jobs, and more green energy for NSW,” Kamper said.
“The Lake Victoria Wind Farm is a significant clean energy initiative that can play a vital role in powering our economy for generations to come.
“The rental income will be reinvested into the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund to provide grants to maintain and improve Crown reserves across the state, such as regional showgrounds, war memorials and community sporting grounds.”
The development also includes up to three battery energy storage systems with a total capacity of 1,500 megawatt-hours, ensuring a more stable and consistent energy supply.
Construction is anticipated to take place between 2029 and 2032, pending planning approvals and community consultations.
The project could support up to 375 jobs during construction and create 70 permanent positions for ongoing operations and maintenance.
WestWind Energy has secured an initial 25-year lease for the site, located about 30 kilometers north-west of Wentworth near the Victorian border, with the option to extend for an additional 14 years.
The lease agreement enables the company to advance planning for the wind farm, which is listed as a State Significant Development on the NSW Planning website.
The rental income from the lease will be reinvested into the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, supporting community infrastructure such as regional showgrounds, war memorials, and sporting grounds.
The project now awaits further planning and regulatory approvals before construction can begin.
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